Game Casserole with Caramelised Apples
During the Game shooting season (mid-August to February in the UK for various bird breeds) you can buy mixed game pieces quite cheaply at most butchers and supermarkets – these are really nice in stews and casseroles. This game Casserole with Caramelised Apples, baked in cider is a good example how you can create an easy, tasty, comforting meal for friends and family! Serve it with a mash or just crusty bread!
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Finely slice the celery and peel the shallots.
- In a heavy-based casserole dish, half of the butter and gently sauté the celery an shallots for a couple of minutes, then transfer to a plate.
- Add half of the remaining butter to the pan and fry the game bits for about 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Return the celery and shallots to the pan and stir for a few seconds.
- Add the cider and let it bubble for 1 minute. Add 2 of the thyme sprigs and season to taste. Put the lid on and cook in the oven for 40 minutes or until the game is tender.
- Core and cut the apples into wedges.
- Heat a frying pan, add the remaining butter and fry the apple for 2-3 minutes until golden and starts to caramelise. Remove from the pan and keep warm.
- Add the crème fraîche to the casserole, stir to combine (if used).
- Serve with the caramelised apple and some thyme leaves scattered on top.